\paperw19995 \margr0\margl0 \plain \fs20 \f1 This painting is constructed around the balance between the objects in the foreground and the foreshortened representation o
f the setting, although the perspective is attenuated by the fact that the figure is placed slightly further back.\par
The view opens with the striking solidity of the still life on the table, accentuated by the soft texture of the cloth on which the ob
jects are set. These are made to stand out by thicker brushstrokes and tiny speckles of gold that cover them. The artist displays extraordinary skill in evoking the intimate nature of things, such as the milk pouring from the lip of the jug. The woman
Æs attitude is particularly significant, and her bowed head appears to echo the slow trickle of the milk. The absence of any decorative elements imparts a solid structure to the figure, rendering it imposing. The apron softly folded over the skirt, the
bodice in the shade of bright yellow of which the painter was so fond and the white camisole and cap draw the onlookerÆs attention. The way the light enters from behind is enhanced even more by the monochrome background, against which are set such ever
yday objects as the wicker basket and brass container hanging on the wall and the wooden box lying on the floor.
